Petition against Bodrugan

These two extracts list some of the claims made against Henry Bodrugan
- and also illustrate the mechanics of the legal system. According
to the petition, Bodrugan had terrorized the inhabitants of Cornwall
for a considerable length of time, committing a range of crimes, including
breaking and entering, robbery, extortion, murder and piracy. Although
he had been paid protection money, his crime spree had not abated.
As a result of this petition, Bodrugan's arrest was ordered. Initially
the sheriffs of Middlesex and London were required to make public
proclamations that Bodrugan was required to appear before the court
of King's Bench. If he did so, he was to be committed to Newgate Prison
until the matters were determined, unless he was able to find bail.
If he failed to show up, then he would be outlawed and suffer forfeiture.
Following a further petition, similar orders were sent to the sheriff
of Cornwall.
Catalogue reference: KB 27/852, m. 35 (1475)